The political landscape in Telangana has taken an unexpected turn with Karnataka becoming one of the crucial themes of the election campaign.
In an unprecedented move, the BRS-Congress alliance is championing the influence of the neighboring state in a manner not seen in previous elections. This shift in focus marks a departure from the usual rhetoric centered on regional issues.
The rise of Kannada politics in Telangana gained momentum after the Congress party’s success in the Karnataka elections.
Initially perceived as a battle between BRS and the BJP in Telangana, the Karnataka results altered the dynamics. The Congress party capitalized on this momentum, shifting its campaign from criticizing the central government to targeting local leaders.
In response, the BRS intensified its attack on the Congress, accusing them of failing to fulfill promises in Karnataka. The Congress, however, countered with its ‘Six Guarantees,’ including schemes such as Mahalakshmi, Rythu Bharosa, Griha Jyoti, Indiramma Inti, Yuva Vikasam, and a monthly pension.
The Congress strategically brought in key figures from Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, to bolster its promises and credibility.
The BRS, in turn, responded by alleging that Congress promises in Karnataka were not adequately implemented and accused Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar of conspiring to move an industry from Hyderabad to Bengaluru. The allegation, supported by a released letter (later contested as fake by Shivakumar), became a focal point of the campaign.
